Inter Milan have officially abandoned their bid to sign Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman, after negotiations with Atalanta reached a deadlock.
The Nerazzurri are now preparing to inform the player’s representatives that the deal will not proceed.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Inter officials are scheduled to meet Lookman’s camp within the next 24 hours to communicate the decision and explain why the club has decided to step away from the move.
Negotiations Hit a Wall
Talks between the two Serie A clubs had stalled for more than two weeks, with Atalanta refusing to reduce their valuation of the 26-year-old.
Despite Inter’s early confidence that a compromise could be reached, no progress was made, and the Nerazzurri have decided against pursuing the deal any further.
Sources close to the club have also dismissed speculation that Lookman’s situation was tied to Nicola Zalewski’s transfer from Roma to Atalanta, stressing that the negotiations were handled independently.
Lookman’s Rising Stock
Lookman has been one of Atalanta’s standout performers since arriving from RB Leipzig in 2022, his sharp movement, ability to play across the forward line, and clinical finishing have made him integral to former manager Gian Piero Gasperini’s side.
Last season, he contributed double figures in both goals and assists across Serie A and European competition, spearheading Atalanta’s attacking threat alongside Gianluca Scamacca and Mateo Retegui.
On the international stage, Lookman impressed at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, scoring three times as Nigeria reached the final before narrowly losing to Ivory Coast, his displays further elevated his reputation and earned him CAF Player of the Year award.
Inter’s Transfer Dilemma
Inter had earmarked Lookman as a dynamic attacking reinforcement, particularly amid concerns over squad depth and fitness issues among their forwards.
His versatility—able to operate on either wing or as a second striker—was seen as an asset for new manger Cristian Chivu’s tactical setup.
However, with Atalanta holding firm and refusing to negotiate on a lower fee, Inter will now shift their focus to alternative targets in the closing weeks of the transfer window.
The Nerazzurri are believed to be weighing other attacking profiles who can provide flexibility without requiring a huge financial outlay.
For Lookman, the breakdown of talks means he is set to remain in Bergamo, where he remains a key figure in Atalanta’s plans as they prepare for another campaign balancing Serie A and European commitments.